10 Tips for a Smooth Facelift Recovery

Facelift surgery is a comprehensive procedure that’s been popular for many years. It’s not surprising—the surgery is extremely effective for producing long-lasting anti-aging results that look very natural. With those great results, however, comes a price—a fairly significant recovery period that lasts for several weeks. Why? Because traditional facelift surgery involves some fairly large incisions as well as repositioning of the skin, muscle, and fat in the face.

The good news is that facelift recovery doesn’t have to be an obstacle to getting the results you want. With gentler surgical techniques and enhanced knowledge about the healing process, you can minimize the inconvenience of facelift surgery and be back on your feet in no time. Here are 10 tips for a smooth facelift recovery and great results.

1. Rest

Clear out your to-do list, clear out your schedule, and make time to rest. You may be on-the-go and on call all the time, but this is not the time to even do computer-based work. De-stress, focus on healing, and don’t be tempted to work or do too much during your recovery. There’s plenty of time to gradually increase your activity level, but your first few days should be devoted to resting up.

2. Don’t Panic

Panicking doesn’t help you heal—in fact, it does the opposite. Don’t get paranoid by looking out for complications 24/7. It’s absolutely important to notify your surgeon if you see signs of infection or other problems, but don’t overanalyze every little change.

3. Monitor Your Progress

Just because you’re not sweating the small stuff, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t monitor your progress or keep an eye out for potential problems. It can be helpful to keep a log of how you feel, how you look, and what you notice each day, in case you need to remember how your healing progressed.

4. Be Patient

Remember: results take time. The first few days and weeks, you’ll be uncomfortable, and probably dismayed by your appearance. You will look worse before you look better! Don’t panic if you don’t like what you see—it takes time to heal and see the real results.

5. Nourish Yourself

Good food will help your body bounce back quickly, and junk food does you no favors in your recovery. But how do you cook when you’re resting up from surgery? Easy: you don’t. Make sure your fridge is stocked with healthy, easy-to-prepare meals and snacks before your surgery. Many patients make meals and freeze them in advance, to be reheated during recovery.

6. Stay Elevated

Keeping your head elevated following the procedure accomplishes a couple of things: it helps keep swelling down, and it helps keep you comfortable. Sleeping in a recliner or using lots of extra pillows are great ways to keep your head elevated during recovery as much as possible.

7. Be Cool

Colder temperatures are great for reducing swelling, which is why you should be careful during your facelift recovery to avoid taking too-hot showers, sitting next to heaters, or otherwise exposing your face to excess heat.

8. Take Your Meds

Recovery is not always going to be comfortable—and that’s where your pain meds come in. Don’t feel like you need to avoid them as long as you can—they’re there to help ease you through the recovery process. Take them according to direction if you need to, there’s no reason not to.

9. Protect Your Skin

Once you’ve undergone facial surgery, your skin will be very sensitive for a while. This means, you’ll need to protect it—specifically, from the sun. Sun exposure is bad for sensitive, recovering skin, and your skin may respond with hyperpigmentation—darkening of the skin. Be sure to use sunscreen and a hat when outdoors to minimize the risk to your skin.

10. Follow Instructions—and Take Things Slow

Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for yourself following facelift surgery, and you should follow this information to a T. Your surgeon has all the knowledge you need to heal properly and set yourself up for success; don’t jeopardize your results by ignoring your doctor’s advice.

Finally, take things slow—you should ease back into your normal routine slowly, and there’s no shame in taking extra time to heal.

A Knowledgeable Surgeon to Guide You

If you’re thinking about facelift surgery but don’t know how to get started, your first step is to find a knowledgeable surgeon to guide you through the process. Your plastic surgeon will be the main deciding factor in the success of your procedure, so it’s important you consult with several board certified experts before you decide on the best surgeon for you.

If you’re looking for a skilled plastic surgeon to answer your questions in the Birmingham or Dearborn, MI areas, come to Masri Clinic for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery to meet with our esteemed, board certified plastic surgeons. Dr. Masri and his colleagues offer the best in facial rejuvenation, and offer complimentary consultations to help you plan your treatment. Call () today to schedule your appointment.